LITTLE ROCK, Ark. (KTHV) - Hours before the store officially opened, curiosity peaked dozens of people who were waiting for the chance to explore the brand new Bass Pro Shops.

General Manager Will Anderson said, "We are prepared for whatever it is," even if it means preparing for thousands of people to fill their parking lots.

Anderson continued, "Expect it to be as smooth as we can as we can go with it. I don't foresee a catastrophe by no means. Will it be heavy traffic? Absolutely." For that reason alone, the store is taking extra measures to ensure safety.

The store has opened an undeveloped area west of the store to accommodate several hundred more vehicles. One visitor said, "That'll hold a couple hundred cars right there, easy."

According to the Little Rock Police Department, 12 off-duty police officers were on hand to direct traffic as well as handle parking lot and store security through the weekend. Six off-duty officers will remain on hand throughout the holiday weekend.

The grand opening ceremony started at 6 p.m. Wednesday, with a ribbon-cutting and doors opening at 6:30 p.m. The grand opening ended at 9 p.m. Wednesday.